Georgian PM: relations with US “need a reboot”
Kobakhidze also said Robin Dunnigan, the US Ambassador to Georgia, had been “constructive and positive throughout these months” and claimed the stance had been in contrast with her predecessors. He said he hoped the diplomat would make a “personal contribution to the improvement of relations between Georgia and the US”. Photo: Government Administration
Tweet 
Share
Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze on Thursday claimed relations between Georgia and the United States needed a “reboot and improvement”, adding his Government would “do everything” for the purpose.
Kobakhidze’s comments followed a statement by Matthew Miller, the Spokesperson for the United States Department of State, who on Wednesday said the US Government would review its relationship with Georgia in response to adoption of the controversial law on transparency of foreign influence, including through potential sanctions and visa restrictions.
Miller’s remark followed US Secretary of State Antony Blinken last month announcing a new visa restriction policy for “those responsible for undermining democracy” in Georgia, including in connection with the law adopted by the ruling Georgian Dream party, as well as a comprehensive review of the cooperation between the two countries.
The law requires registration of non-commercial legal entities and media outlets in the country as “pursuing the interests of a foreign power” if they derive more than 20 percent of their funding from abroad.
In his response, Kobakhidze claimed “language of blackmail” from US officials had “failed to contribute to healthy relationships”, highlighting the “importance of rebooting and improving the relationships”.
The official also noted it was “important” for the Government to “continue and deepen” defence cooperation with the US, adding the ties were “equally important for both sides”.
Therefore, I do not know if they intend to reduce anything in this regard [because] it would be equally harmful to the interests of our country and the American side. I think that everyone should act pragmatically. This is my appeal to everyone. It is our interest and desire to reboot relations between Georgia and the US”, the PM said.
Kobakhidze also said Robin Dunnigan, the US Ambassador to Georgia, had been “constructive and positive throughout these months” and claimed the stance had been in contrast with her predecessors. He said he hoped the diplomat would make a “personal contribution to the improvement of relations between Georgia and the US”.